“Ice Queen: How Olivia Rodrigo Modernized Tom Ford’s Gucci Legacy”
In a masterful display of vintage fashion consciousness that left the style set swooning, Olivia Rodrigo graced the Billboard Live Music Summit with an ensemble that served as both a history lesson and a masterclass in modern styling. The “vampire” singer, honored as the touring artist of the year, transformed West Hollywood’s 1 Hotel into her personal runway with a look that paid homage to one of fashion’s most pivotal moments – Tom Ford’s legendary Spring/Summer 1998 collection for Gucci.
The centerpiece of Rodrigo’s carefully curated ensemble was an ethereal ice-blue pencil skirt that sat deliberately low on her hips, a signature silhouette from Ford’s groundbreaking collection. The piece’s lustrous silk satin finish caught the light with every movement, creating an almost liquid effect that reminded us why Ford’s tenure at Gucci remains unmatched in its sensual sophistication.
In a move that would make Paris Hilton proud, Rodrigo fearlessly embraced the exposed G-string trend that defined the early 2000s. However, this wasn’t just any visible thong moment – the black patent leather G-string with its rhinestone-encrusted logo buckles was another authentic piece from Ford’s same legendary collection, proving that Rodrigo and her styling team, the incomparable Chloe and Chenelle Delgadillo, understand the importance of fashion archaeology.
The look was anchored by a strappy cropped black tank top, also from the same collection, typically presented as part of a set with a black bodycon skirt. However, Rodrigo’s decision to pair it with the ice-blue skirt instead demonstrated a refreshing contemporary interpretation of these archival pieces.
The accessories proved equally thoughtful. Her choice of Amina Muaddi’s black satin Mary Jane pumps – with their signature architectural heel – provided a modern counterpoint to the vintage elements. The Tiffany & Co. white diamond knot earrings and matching diamond-encrusted Tiffany Knot ring added a layer of sophistication that prevented the look from veering too far into costume territory.
Beauty-wise, Rodrigo maintained her signature aesthetic while nodding to the era’s minimalist glamour. A sleek blowout framed her face, while a precise cat-eye liner (courtesy of Glossier’s Pro Tip liquid liner, befitting her role as brand ambassador) and a brownish-red glossy lip completed the look. The addition of striking red nails provided just enough contrast to make the entire ensemble pop.
This appearance not only cements Rodrigo’s status as a fashion force to be reckoned with but also demonstrates her deep appreciation for fashion history. In an era where vintage fashion is often referenced without context, Rodrigo’s thoughtful curation of authentic pieces from one of fashion’s most memorable collections shows a sophistication beyond her years.
